Heritage Railway operating since 1878

In 1878, construction commenced on the Port Augusta and Government Gums (now known as Farina, which is north of the Flinders Ranges) Railway. The line was extended to Oodnadatta in 1891 and further to Alice Springs (771 miles or 1241 km) in 1929, establishing an important rail link to Central Australia. The famous Ghan passenger train travelled this way from 1923 to 1956, and on the northern part of this route until 1980.

You can enjoy a full-day or half-day trip aboard a restored steam or heritage diesel train on the original Ghan route between Port Augusta and Quorn on the Pichi Richi Railway.

Watch gum-lined creeks, bluebush-studded hills and ancient rocky outcrops roll past at the relaxed pace of years gone by. All trains use historic steam or diesel locomotives or railcars or immaculately restored timber carriages some more than 130 years old.

Since 1973, volunteers of the Pichi Richi Railway Preservation Society continue to proudly restore and run the railway.

We operate on selected dates from March to November each year. Check our timetable, then book online or phone 1800 PR RAIL (1800 77 7245). 

COVID-19 update: restarting train services

Pichi Richi Railway Executive is pleased to announce (in accordance with government recommendations during the COVID-19 pandemic) that train services will recommence on 28 June 2020 with capacity restrictions to enhance social distancing.  We will be able to carry up to 20 passengers per carriage and 80 passengers per service.  Pre-packaged food will be available for purchase at Woolshed Flat on Pichi Richi Explorer services and seats will be allocated at the Ticket Office at the departure station.  Passengers will be sent an email on the day before departure detailing arrangements.

Please note the following special requirements:

• Passengers must not travel if they are feeling unwell and should advise the Flinders Rangers Visitor Information Centre or the PRR Ticket Office on 08 86486598 before departure if this is the case.
• Passengers are encouraged to bring their own hand sanitizer, although hand sanitizer will also be available on the train.
• Passengers should report to the relevant Ticket Office at least 60 minutes before train departure for checking in and confirmation of carriage allocation and of contact-tracing details. Any children under 4yrs in your party should be advised at the time of booking.
• Passengers are reminded to adhere to social distancing protocols when they are attending the Pichi Richi Railway.
• Passengers must ensure they sit in the same seat on any return journey.
• Passengers from outside South Australia should consider the potential impact of border restrictions when booking.

Thank you to everyone contributing to our recovery from this crisis, and further thanks for the messages of support received. We look forward to welcoming you aboard soon!

Update:  September 2020 - Like most areas of domestic tourism, Pichi Richi Railway has been inundated with bookings and most of our trains are full (to the limit of restricted capacity allowed under COVID-19 regulations) up to the end of October 2020. If you cannot find seats on your desired service, you can email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and ask to be added to a waitlist, but there are no guarantees that we will be able to help.  

Bookings are now open for our 2021 train departures. Plan your trip and book now to avoid disappointment.

Last update: 29 September 2020 13:30 hrs

NSU 52 article in January 2020 Railway Digest

Young member Caleb Jenkins has his first major article featured in the January edition of the authoritative Railway Digest with some excellent photographs and information about PRR's latest operational locomotive.

Pichi Richi Railway a finalist in 2019 South Australian Tourism Awards

Pichi Richi Railway was a finalist in the 2019 South Australian Tourism Awards, and this was a huge achievement for our tireless and dedicated volunteers, supporters and passengers who for 45 years have kept us steaming through the Flinders Ranges.